HOT WEATHER TIPS FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS

Now that the long days of warm weather are here, remember that summer in the city can be hazardous to your pet if you're not careful. A routine romp in the sun, for instance, can throw your pet into shock if proper caution is not exercised. So, please remember these tips from the Columbus Animal Shelter and Festus while you prepare for another long, hot summer.

1. Never leave your pet in a car. An auto can quickly turn into an
   oven for a dog or cat, even with the windows open and the car parked in the shade.
2. ALWAYS provide plenty of cool clean water for your pet. Check his dish several times a day and refill it with fresh water.
3. Never let your dog or cat run loose. It's a good way to get an animal injured, stolen, or even killed. Be especially careful with your cat. Make sure there are no open windows or doors for him to jump through when you're not looking.
4. Always keep a current license and identification tag on your pet in case he gets lost. A license tag does no good at home in your drawer.
5. ALWAYS provide plenty of shade for a dog staying outside the house. A properly constructed dog house serves best. Whenever possible, bring your pet inside during the heat of the day and let him rest in a cool part of the house.
6. Always exercise your pet in the cool of the day-early morning and late afternoon or early evening. Never give your pet forced exercise after feeding, especially in very hot, humid weather.
7. Never tie a dog outside on a choke collar. He can choke himself to death. Use a leather or nylon collar instead.
8. Always keep your pet well groomed. Do not shave off his coat because it gives him protection against heat and insects. Your pet's coat also helps him hold cooling .water after a refreshing swim or a wetting with a hose. Comb him to remove excess undercoat. Keep the coat free of mats by brushing regularly. A clean coat also helps prevent summer skin problems.
9. Never go on vacation and leave your pet shut in an empty house or tied outside. Be sure to provide for his comfort and care when you plan your summer trip.
10. Always watch out for summer fleas and ticks that may infest your pet. Take him to your veterinarian for a thorough summer check-up ( including a check for heartworm ) and use a good flea and tick repellent recommended by your vet.
11. Never walk your pet in areas that you suspect may have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. Many of these chemicals can sicken or even kill animals. So keep your pets away from these areas, observe him closely, and call your veterinarian if he begins to act suspiciously.

If, in spite of your care, the dog days of summer bring on twitching, rapid panting, unusual barking, or a staring expression, call your veterinarian immediately. Then immerse your pet in water, spray him with cool to temperate(not cold) water from a hose, or pack ice bags on his head, stomach, and groin. Quick cooling nay save his life.